Best countryside escapes this summer
Escape the city heat with our guide to the best countryside destinations this summer—think vineyards, lavender fields, and timeless villages.
European Countryside Gems
Loire Valley, France
Summer in the Loire Valley is all about leisurely bike rides past vineyards and fairy‑tale châteaux. The region’s gentle climate makes it perfect for cycling along the Loire River, stopping for wine tastings and picnics in sunflower‑dotted fields.
You can book stays at Boutique Vineyards and Chateau hotels like Château du Grand Lucé Château d’Artigny Domaine des Hauts de Loire or visit local restaurants like La Fourchette (Amboise) ,Le Shaker (Tours) Le Pot de Lapin
Tip; Smaller boutique hotels and vineyard B&Bs around Amboise and Saumur offer rooms starting at €90–120 per night, giving travelers a more affordable countryside stay. Stay in Amboise if you want a balance of vineyard charm and budget options—the town has boutique B&Bs, affordable restaurants, and easy access to cycling routes along the Loire River. Book vineyard stays early in summer, as they fill quickly with wine‑loving travelers.
Val d’Orcia, Italy
Rolling hills, golden wheat fields, and rustic farmhouses define Val d’Orcia in summer. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers wine tours in Montalcino and Pienza, plus unforgettable sunsets over cypress‑lined roads.
Book your stays in hotels like La Saracina (Pienza) – Stylish country house with chic décor, gardens, and panoramic views. Lupaia (Torrita di Siena) – Rustic elegance with vineyard surroundings and farm‑to‑table dining. Stelle di Monte (Montepulciano) – Cozy guesthouse with vineyard views and on‑site restaurant.
Smaller vineyard B&Bs in Gordes and Roussillon start at €90–120 per night, ideal for travelers seeking charm without luxury prices. Local guesthouses (chambres d’hôtes) often include breakfast and vineyard views at affordable rates.
Local Restaurants
- Le Bistrot de l’Ancienne Poste (Ménerbes) – Casual Provençal dishes at fair prices.
- Chez Serge (Carpentras) – Known for truffle dishes and seasonal menus.
Tip: Time your visit to Sénanque Abbey just after sunrise—the lavender fields glow purple, and you’ll avoid the midday crowd.
Beyond Europe
Napa Valley, USA
Summer in Napa Valley is more than wine tastings—it’s warm evenings spent on vineyard patios, live music drifting from small towns, and the scent of oak barrels in cool cellars. Many travelers choose family‑run inns tucked among the vines, where the owners share their favorite bottles and stories of harvest seasons. Around Calistoga, cozy B&Bs feel personal and welcoming, often at friendlier prices than the big resorts. After a day of tastings, grab a casual bite at Gott’s Roadside—a local institution where burgers come with a surprisingly good wine list.
Planning a stay? Check vineyard B&Bs in Calistoga
Lake District, UK
The Lake District is all about slowing down—long hikes past stone walls, picnics by shimmering lakes, and evenings in country pubs. Boutique stays here often feel like extensions of the landscape: converted farmhouses with wood‑burning stoves and gardens full of wildflowers. For travelers on a budget, family‑run guesthouses in Keswick or Ambleside offer warm hospitality and hearty breakfasts that set you up for a day outdoors. Dinner might be at a gastropub like The Drunken Duck Inn, where local ales and seasonal dishes capture the spirit of the region. Browse countryside guesthouses in Keswick .
Santorini Countryside, Greece
Away from the famous caldera, Santorini’s inland villages reveal a quieter countryside charm. In Pyrgos or Megalochori, boutique stays in old winery estates let you experience the island’s slower rhythm. Budget‑friendly guesthouses often include homemade breakfasts with fresh bread, olives, and figs from the garden. For dinner, locals swear by Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia—a hidden gem serving authentic dishes at fair prices.
Activities & Experiences
Vineyard Stays & Wine Tastings
There’s something magical about waking up among the vines—whether it’s Tuscany, Napa, or Provence. Vineyard stays often include tastings led by the winemakers themselves, giving you a glimpse into centuries‑old traditions. Guests might stroll through the vines at sunset, glass in hand, listening to stories of harvests past.
Tip: Ask if the vineyard offers a “winemaker’s dinner”—these intimate meals pair local dishes with estate wines and often become the highlight of a countryside trip.
Cycling & Hiking Routes
Countryside escapes are best experienced slowly—on two wheels or by foot. In the Loire Valley, cycling along the river reveals hidden châteaux; in the Lake District, hiking trails lead to panoramic lake views. These routes let you connect with the land at your own pace.
Farm‑to‑Table Dining & Cooking Classes
Countryside cuisine is rooted in the land. In Provence, lavender honey and goat cheese appear on rustic tables; in Val d’Orcia, hearty Tuscan stews simmer with local herbs. Many vagriturismo stays and boutique inns offer cooking classes where you learn to prepare regional dishes alongside locals.
Local Festivals & Cultural Events
Summer countryside escapes often coincide with festivals—wine harvest celebrations, lavender fairs, or lakeside music events. These gatherings are where travelers truly feel part of the community. Check countryside festival tickets
